Curing of concrete can be done by which of the following methods?
Correct Answer: D. Any of these
📚 Detailed Explanation: Multiple Valid Methods of Concrete Curing
Why D (Any of these) is correct: All three options are recognised and commonly used wet curing methods. Each successfully maintains moisture at the concrete surface to promote continued hydration and strength gain.
Wet Curing Methods Compared
| Method | How Applied | Best For | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spraying water | Water sprayed/misted periodically from hose or sprinkler | Vertical surfaces, columns, walls | Flexible; can reach all surfaces; no special equipment |
| Ponding | Bunds of clay/sand create bays filled with 30–50 mm water | Flat surfaces: slabs, roads, floors | Most effective (100% continuous moisture); best strength gain |
| Moist cloth / hessian | Wet burlap, jute, or cotton laid on surface; re-wetted regularly | Any accessible surface; columns, beams | Simple; versatile; cheap; reusable |
Other Curing Methods (Not Listed But Valid)
| Method | Type | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Membrane curing compounds | Chemical / dry curing | Roads, large flat areas; no water supply |
| Steam curing | Accelerated curing | Precast units; rapid strength gain |
| Polyethylene sheet | Physical membrane | Slabs; covers and traps moisture |
- Any of the three methods (spraying, ponding, moist cloth) are valid wet curing methods.
- Choice depends on: surface orientation (flat vs. vertical), climate (hot/dry needs more frequent application), and available resources.
- Ponding is most effective for flat surfaces; spraying for vertical; cloth is most versatile.